The historic Penn Yan Diner was heavily damaged by a fire early Wednesday morning. Just before midnight, Yates County 911 received an alarm from the nearly 100 year old diner on East Elm Street. The first officers on-scene reported heavy smoke pouring from the structure.
Firefighters from Penn Yan, Himrod, and Benton worked together to contain the blaze. Their quick response prevented the fire from spreading to the nearby buildings, first responders added. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.
The Penn Yan Diner, a beloved local landmark, is owned by Anna Sweet, Nate Salpeter, Alicia Avellandeda, and Cameron Mills.
The Penn Yan Fire Department issued the following statement early-Wednesday about the overnight blaze:
“PYFD responded early this morning to a structure fire at the Penn Yan Diner on East Elm St. Penn Yan PD was dispatched for an alarm and found smoke coming from the building. Units were able to perform an interior attack and quickly extinguish the fire. PYFD responded with E-1, E-2, E-3, L-4, Rescue 5 as well as 30 members. Mutual Aid consisted of Himrod Fire for the FAST Team, Benton Fire with an engine and manpower to the scene and Branchport / Keuka Park Fire with an engine to standby in our station.”
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